When it comes to horse racing, the best bettors aren’t guessing — they’re reading the form. And nothing is more important than the Past Performances, or PPs. These data-packed lines show how a horse has run in previous races, helping you spot patterns, strengths, and red flags. Whether you're betting online at MyWinners or at a Winners venue, understanding PPs can help turn a hunch into a smart wager.
What are Past Performances (PPs)?
What are Past Performances (PPs)?
Past Performances are detailed historical records of a horse’s previous races. They usually include:
Race date and track
Surface and distance
Finishing position
Jockey and trainer
Speed figures
Running style and pace
Track condition (fast, sloppy, turf, etc.)
These details give you a full picture of a horse’s form, fitness, and suitability for the current race.
Why are PPs important to bettors?
Why are PPs important to bettors?
Spot horses in good or declining form
Identify surface or distance preferences
Compare pace scenarios and race shape
Gauge class drops or upgrades
Evaluate trainer and jockey performance trends
If you're not using PPs, you're basically betting blind. Even a quick glance can help you avoid cold horses and zero in on contenders.
How do I read a racing form at MyWinners.com?
How do I read a racing form at MyWinners.com?
Start with the horse’s name and number
Look at the last 3–5 races to judge consistency
Pay attention to finishing position and margin
Use speed figures to compare performance across tracks
Note changes in equipment, jockey, or trainer
Look for trouble notes like “bumped” or “steadied” — they explain poor finishes
MyWinners' online form viewer breaks this all down in a clean, mobile-friendly layout.
Pro Tips for Using Past Performances
Pro Tips for Using Past Performances
Check for “2nd off a layoff” — many horses improve in their second race back
Look at workout patterns between starts
Horses stepping up in class need to show competitive speed figures
A switch to a top jockey or barn can signal major improvement
Toss a bad last race if there’s a clear excuse in the notes
💡 Did You Know? Legendary bettor Andy Beyer created Beyer Speed Figures to help level the playing field — and they’re now standard in almost every US racing form.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the most important part of the past performances?
What’s the most important part of the past performances?
It depends on your style, but many pros focus on speed figures, pace, and class level. The finishing position alone doesn’t tell the full story.
Can beginners use past performances?
Can beginners use past performances?
Absolutely. Even just spotting trends in recent finishes, jockey changes, or surface preference can give you an edge over casual bettors.
Where can I find PPs on MyWinners?
Where can I find PPs on MyWinners?
On each racecard, click on the horse’s name to open the detailed past performance page — mobile and desktop friendly.
How far back do PPs go?
How far back do PPs go?
Most forms show the last 10 races, but major races or stakes runners may include more. For older horses, you'll see a bigger sample size.
What does it mean if a horse “faded” or “rallied” in a race?
What does it mean if a horse “faded” or “rallied” in a race?
These terms describe running style. “Faded” means the horse lost ground late. “Rallied” means it made up ground from behind. Both are key to understanding pace.